Story and photos by Larry Vogel

Saturday evening visitors to downtown Edmonds Otherworlds store got the rare chance to be transported to a Victorian-inspired fantasy world of steam-driven airships, gears, and clockworks at the store’s gala Airship Masquerade.

The event drew approximately 50 participants from the Puget Sound area, many of whom showed up in elaborate costumes. It’s all part of the Steampunk subculture, a modern-day celebration of the future as envisioned by late-19th century visionaries like Jules Verne and H.G. Wells.

For many, the costumes and trappings of Steampunk become a fulfilling lifestyle. Alex Baker worked for more than a year designing and building an elaborate prosthetic arm and a full costume to go with it. A detailed sculpture in its own right, the arm includes clockworks, fires (imitation) shotgun shells, and has an internal system of pulleys and belts that allow him to wear and animate it. “A project like this is never really finished,” Baker said. “As I come up with new ideas to incorporate, I add them. It’s an evolving process.”

Additional entertainment was provided by the Toy Box Trio, a group of classically-trained musicians who put a new twist on the traditional piano trio chamber music staple. Comprising a concertina, toy piano and double bass, they create an enticing world of dusty old music boxes and haunted carnivals. Learn more and listen to their music at toyboxtrio.com.

Also on hand was Vancouver, Wash. author Jonathon Burgess, who gave readings and signed copies of his new fantasy airship novel, “Chasing the Lantern.” The first of a trilogy, the book is available to print on demand from outlets equipped with the new Espresso Book Machines, including the University Book Store and Third Place Books. Learn more at jonathonburgess.com.

Otherworlds, located in Old Milltown Plaza, is a joint venture of Edmonds residents Ahren Paulson and Brynn Watson. The store is a visual and tactile delight, packed with games, clothing and accessories, many of which are designed and fabricated by local artists.

“We feature a wide variety of special-interest items, many of which are one-of-a-kind and not generally available,” Watson said. “Many local artists find that Otherworlds offers a unique place to display and sell their goods.”

Formerly coworkers at a local bookstore, the pair decided to take the plunge and live their dream. “When I was 6 years old my parents took me into a game store,” Paulson said. “I’ve been hooked on fantasy and role-playing games ever since.”

“Edmonds is such a special place,” Watson added. “We’re so pleased to be part of our local business community.”